Anthrax: Possible Gastrointestinal Exposure

Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by anthrax bacteria. The bacteria are spread in the form of spores. A spore is a covering on the bacteria, like the shell of a seed. The spores keep the bacteria alive for long periods of time, waiting for the right conditions to grow. Anthrax can cause an infection in the skin, stomach and intestines (GI tract), or lungs. It usually happens by handling infected animal products or animals.

The gastrointestinal (GI) form of anthrax occurs after eating food that has been contaminated with anthrax spores or after eating raw or undercooked meat from an animal infected with anthrax. The infection is more common in underdeveloped areas. It is rare in North America and Europe. Not everyone who ingests anthrax will get sick. If infection occurs after eating the contaminated food, symptoms start within 1 to 7 days.

Symptoms of GI anthrax can start out like stomach flu. But they can get worse quickly. Symptoms may include:

• Fever and chills.
• Swelling of neck or neck glands.
• Sores on the tongue and throat.
• Sore throat, pain or trouble swallowing.
• Hoarseness.
• Nausea and vomiting, which may be bloody.
• Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea.
• Belly (abdominal) pain or swelling.
• Fainting.
• Headache.
• Red face and red eyes.

GI anthrax infection can occur only after eating anthrax spores. It can't be spread from person to person. There is usually no need to examine and treat people who have been in contact with you. Whether you are treated with antibiotics will depend on the risk of exposure and the time since exposure.

• Don't panic. The illness can be cured if treatment starts soon after anthrax is ingested.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating and drinking.

Follow up with your doctor, or as advised.

If a lab test on a sample of cells (culture) was done, you will be told if the treatment needs to be changed. You can call as directed for the results.

If X-rays or a CT scan were done, a specialist will look at them. You will be told of the results, especially if they affect treatment.

Call 911 if:

• You have trouble breathing or swallowing, or wheezing.
• You have trouble speaking.
• You are confused.
• You are extremely drowsy or have trouble waking up.
• You faint or lose consciousness.
• You have a fast heart rate.
• You have low blood pressure.
• You vomit blood or have large amounts of blood in your stool.
• You have a seizure.

Contact your doctor if any of these happen within 3 weeks after exposure:

• Fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as advised by your doctor
• Belly pain, diarrhea, or vomiting
• Open sore on your tongue or throat, or painful swallowing
• Weakness or dizziness

For the latest information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/anthrax . You can also contact your state public health department.